Why these groundsmen are all National treasures

They say a woman's work is never done - but what about the groundsmen? Those who thought that maintenance and preparation for Aintree Racecourse was limited to those weeks of early spring when the Grand National takes place should have a word with Mark Ainsley.

He is the head groundsman at the world's most famous racecourse and with his team of 11 works at a gallop 365 days a year to keep the course in tip-top condition. "It's hard work and we never stop - but we all love the open air life, there's a lot of banter and the lads take a great pride in what they do," said the former head keeper at Leasowe Golf Course, who took over at Aintree just over a year ago and is enjoying the challenge that the job presents.

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